New London Public Schools

PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT

CHANGE IN STATUS FOR SCHOOLS: Message from Dr. Clouet to Staff

Dear Colleagues-

As you have probably heard, the CDC and our own state health department have concluded that the worst has passed regarding the H1N1 virus and that there is no longer an automatic school closing recommendation in the event that someone shows symptoms.

BUT…We clearly need to continue to take all precautions in terms of frequent hand washing, covering mouths when sneezing or coughing, and staying home if we develop flu like symptoms. (and/or referring a student with symptoms to the nurse immediately).

IF … there is an unexpected change in the spread of the virus –or if some unusual development (i.e., sudden multiple cases in a single school) were to occur, we will take appropriate action –in consultation with health officials.

The tragic death of the young teacher in Texas notwithstanding, it appears -according to the experts- that we should be cautiously optimistic about the H1N1 virus for the time being.

Thank you for your vigilance and your professionalism during this health crisis. It is not over! But the level of anxiety can be reduced.

SWINE INFLUENZA

Using
Hand
Sanitizers

Good Hand washing Practice

Flu
Prevention

www.cdc.gov

- symptoms of swine flu are very similar to seasonal influenza: fever, lethargy, anorexia, and cough. In addition, however, there may be runny noses, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea

- encourage everyone to follow these basic infection control practices: cover your cough; throw used tissues away immediately after using them; limit touching your eyes, nose or mouth; stay home if you are sick; and of course, WASH YOUR HANDS!

- remain calm. Although any type of influenza has the potential to cause severe debilitation or death, this flu has thus far been mild in the United States

- For more up-to-date information, go to www.cdc.gov or www.pandemicflu.gov

Link to list of every day precautions. New!

Anyone presenting symptoms should consult a doctor immediately.

School Community Health Center (CHC) will be accessible to parents/guardians - provided they complete a registration form which can be obtained from the School Based Health Centers..

More information about Swine Flu from the Ledge Light Health District

Ledge Light Health District Site

FEBRUARY 15, 2009

A RACCOON FROM THE AREA OF GARDNER AVENUE IN NEW LONDON WAS TESTED AND FOUND TO BE POSITIVE FOR RABIES ON FEBRUARY 15, 2009. THE PUBLIC SHOULD REFRAIN FROM FEEDING OR APPROACHING ANY WILD OR STRAY ANIMALS

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm blooded animals, including people. It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc.)

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ledge Light Health District
at 448-4882 or the Animal Control Officer at 447-5231

Important Health Information on MRSA
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (HA-MRSA)

MRSA Toolkit for Middle and High Schools

MRSA Toolkit for Athletic Departments,
Parents of Athletes and Student Athletes

Let’s Talk About MRSA -- & MRSA Facts
Please note that there is NO MRSA in New London Public Schools

NLPS Recycles

SEMI Students & the Carbon Balance Project

“Enjoy a short stack for a TALL cause!”

Fundraiser for Dual Language Arts Academy

Enjoy a short stack for a tall cause! Pancake fundraiser breakfast at Applebee’s on July 12, 2009 from 8 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

The community is invited to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast at Applebee’s at 350 Long Hill Road in Groton. Tickets are $5.00 and the proceeds go to financing a cultural educational trip to Puerto Rico for the first graduating class (2010) of the Dual Language Arts Academy, located in New London.

For tickets or more information contact Marisol Carrasquillo at (860) 625-5516.